Planting a tree will add diversity and greenery to your landscaping. However, your new tree will need time before it starts to thrive. You can improve its chances for long-term health by following a few key tree maintenance guidelines.

Do:

Supply plenty of water.

Water is essential for a newly planted tree. Inconsistent watering is the most common reason why a new tree will die. Depending on your soil type, your tree will need between one to two inches of water each week to ensure enough moisture gets to the root ball.

Nourish your tree with a layer of mulch.

Adding a layer of mulch to the soil is beneficial for tree maintenance in general, but it’s especially valuable for new plantings. Mulch is a natural fertilizer that conserves moisture. Keep the mulch off the trunk, however, as excess moisture in this area could damage the bark.

Don’t:

Apply fertilizer right away.

While fertilizer can help some plants grow, it’s not recommended for new trees because their root systems won’t be able to absorb it. Don’t waste your time and money—fertilizer won’t help most trees until they have two or three years of established root growth.

Prune large branches.

While pruning can encourage growth, it isn’t recommended during the first year after you’ve planted a tree. Pruning should only be done to eliminate broken or dead branches. Otherwise, the tree’s roots may not be strong enough to support the additional growth that comes after pruning.

 

If you need help with pruning or other maintenance tasks for your new and old trees, contact the team at Arborist Services. Serving the Big Island of Hawaii, each arborist at this tree service company is ISA-certified, so you can have confidence in their knowledge and skills. To learn more about their tree maintenance services, visit them online, or call (808) 895-6537 to request a free quote.